Decode cryptic messages and coding systems for military, political and/or law enforcement agencies

Develop and update methods for efficient handling of cryptic processes

Provide technical support to government, businesses and industry to solve security-related issues

Advise colleagues and research staff on cryptical/mathematical methods and applications

Keep in mind that responsibilities will vary according to the job. Work for the NSA or the FBI could differ wildly from work for an insurance company. Cryptographers and cryptanalysts build successful careers throughout the public and private sectors.

Cryptographer/Cryptanalyst Career Paths

Cryptographers and cryptanalysts come from all walks of life. You will often be able to begin your career straight out of university. Once you have amassed enough experience (and possibly a doctoral degree), you have the option to become a:

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Cryptographer/Cryptanalyst Salaries

Since Cryptographers and Cryptanalysts are lumped with Mathematicians in the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salary numbers can be tricky to pinpoint.

Salary Expert harvests data on cryptography and cryptanalysis jobs in major cities. Average salary numbers range from $60,000-$100,000 (2014 figures).

By scanning all job listings for the term “cryptography”, SimplyHired has calculated the average salary as $70,000 (2014 figures).

All Star Jobs suggests that Junior Cryptanalyst salaries begin around $40,000; Senior Cryptanalysts can earn well over $100,000 per year.

Cryptographer/Cryptanalyst Job Requirements

Degree Requirements

Employers will be looking for a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, Computer Engineering or a related discipline. If you don’t have a technical degree, you may be able to get away with extensive training and work experience. The NSA is willing to consider candidates with majors in both technical and non-technical degrees.

An MS is strongly suggested unless your bachelor’s degree is a double major in Mathematics and Computer Science. To expand your job opportunities, you could also consider a doctorate in Mathematics or Computer Science with a focus on cryptography.

Work Experience

This is a tough one to call. A job description for a Cryptographer at MIT might ask for a technical PhD or an MS with 5+ years of experience. Other employers may be satisfied with 3+ years of experience in security engineering/administration. Junior Cryptanalysts may be able to go straight into employment with no prior work experience. It will depend on the position.

Hard Skills

Cryptography and cryptanalysis are built on the three pillars of computer science, engineering and applied mathematics. As you start your career, look at acquiring technical skills in:

Soft Skills

Cryptographers and Cryptanalysts are intelligent, analytical and outstandingly creative. Like any great code breaker, they are willing to take on the most complex mathematical challenges. They have a strong ethical core and a passion for solving puzzles.

Above all, they are trustworthy enough to handle incredibly sensitive data. Because you will be working with sensitive information, employers will also want to see evidence of your trustworthiness and good judgment.

Certifications for Cryptographers/Cryptanalysts

Unlike more established fields, cryptography and cryptanalysis are relative newcomers to the world of security accreditation. EC-Council has developed one certification that specifically deals with encryption: CES: Certified Encryption Specialist.